Nyngan will enjoy greater water security after a joint-government project was completed.The new $2 million Belaringar Creek syphon has been described as a ‘game-changer,’ and will send its first lot of water down the Macquarie River in the next week.The pipeline was built under the Belaringar Creek in 1942 which transports raw water from the Albert Priest Channel to Nyngan for critical town water supply. However, the original infrastructure had been leaking in recent years due to its old age, causing significant water losses and impacting the town’s drought resilience. The replacement 900mm diameter, 177-metre syphon will provide the first water transfer from the channel in more than two months.Key stakeholders have welcomed the syphon upgrade.“The old Belaringar Creek Syphon was a stalwart for more than eight decades, but it had never had a major upgrade and was badly leaking which is why we agreed with Council that replacing it should be high on our priority list,” NSW DCCEEW Executive Director Infrastructure Development - Water, Lisa Hingerty said.“Reducing water loss and waste is a key piece of the water security jigsaw for this region. The newly minted syphon will be a game-changer when it comes to improving efficiency and shoring up Nyngan’s supply over the long term, especially when water is scarce. “While this major work is now signed, sealed and delivered - we've got more where that came from with investigations continuing into a new bore and pipeline to lock-in more water supply for Nyngan. “There has never been a more important time to prepare our regional towns for the challenges of a changing climate, including making sure local water infrastructure is up to scratch.” Bogan Shire Council Mayor Glen Neill said while the wider water security project has other components that are still being worked on, the syphon replacement in time for summer when water evaporates fastest, was a huge win for the region.“These various projects that we have on the boil not only work to help secure our water future but also provide local jobs and stimulate our businesses.  “Council values the continued strong relationship with the NSW Government, which has resulted in some big gains on the water infrastructure front for Nyngan over the past few years, that will help stand our community in good stead for the future.”  The project was funded by the NSW Government as part of a $7.23 million package from the State’s Critical Drought Fund and delivered in partnership with Bogan Shire Council. Funding will also be provided for a new town bore and pipeline currently in the planning and development phase. This will provide an alternative water supply for Nyngan to lean on during droughts. For more information – https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/our-work/water-infrastructure-nsw/grants-and-funding   

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Warren Shire!The annual Santa Street competition has once again lit up the town with dazzling displays, creative decorations, and a whole lot of holiday cheer.Over the judging weekend, Warren came alive as judges toured the streets, taking in the festive sights and sounds of this much-loved tradition.And the winner is... Lower Garden Avenue!For the second year running, this spirited street took out the top prize with its jaw-dropping displays of twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and unmistakable community camaraderie.It’s safe to say that Lower Garden Avenue has set the benchmark for Christmas magic in Warren.Acting General Manager Stephen Glen was full of praise for the incredible effort shown by all entrants."The Christmas spirit is truly alive and thriving in Warren," Mr Glen said."The creativity, effort, and sense of community displayed this year were nothing short of remarkable."On behalf of Council, I’d like to congratulate Lower Garden Avenue for their outstanding display and commend all entrants for making our Shire such a festive place to be," Mr Glen said.While Lower Garden Avenue stole the spotlight, individual entries also shone brightly.Residents of Garden Avenue, Warren, celebrate their win in Warren Shire's festive lights competition.Some standout addresses included:2 Stubbs Avenue5 Boston Street49 Chester Street80 Chester Street82 Chester Street84 Chester Street86 Dubbo Street22 Oxley Parade10 Pittman ParadeMeanwhile, local businesses didn’t miss out on the fun.The Business House Front Window Display Competition brought an extra dose of festive flair to the Shire, with shopfronts decked out in glittering lights and holiday themes.This year’s winner is One One Seven Bakery Cafe, retaining their title for the second consecutive year.The winning business will receive a $100 voucher to spend locally—a festive bonus for their incredible effort."Local businesses have gone above and beyond to create a joyful and colourful atmosphere," Mr Glen said."Their efforts bring vibrancy to our Shire and encourage our community to shop local and celebrate the season together," he said.Congratulations to One One Seven Bakery Cafe and thank you to all participants for their contributions."Warren Shire Council extended a huge thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s festive season so special.Whether it was stringing up lights, decorating shopfronts, or simply enjoying the displays, the community enthusiasm and holiday spirit have made Warren a magical place to be this Christmas.Be sure to wander through the streets and soak up the festive cheer while it lasts!

Double demerits are now in force as part of police efforts to keep rural roads safe over the holiday period. From today until 11:59pm on Wednesday 1 January, the penalty will apply to speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences as part of Operation Christmas/New Year 2024. Traffic and Highway Patrol North West Region Commander, Superintendent Paul Glinn, said officers will be out and about- from major motorways to backstreets. "Every police car can and will complete random breath testing (RBT) and random drug testing (RDT) – so expect to see police anywhere anytime across Western NSW," Superintendent Glinn said. "We are particularly focused on rural and regional areas where longer travel distances, driver fatigue, animals on the roadway, and varying road conditions can contribute to crashes. "Our goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they are travelling, can enjoy a safe holiday season. We want you to get to your destination, enjoy your holiday, and travel home safely too."SOURCE: Transport for NSWThree hundred and thirty people have died in crashes on NSW roads this year as at 17 December, 244 of those in regional areas. Of the 166 drivers recorded killed last year, 137 were male, according to Transport for NSW. Men also were also overrepresented in the number of passengers, motorcyclists, passengers and pedestrians killed in 2023. “The most important gift you can give this festive season is being responsible. Be the motorist who obeys the road rules and drives to the conditions, not the motorist who drives recklessly and kills someone,” Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said. “While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. You don’t want to be the person whose irresponsible behaviour changes a life – or lives – forever. “What’s worse than getting a fine in the mail or losing your licence, is being the reason a family has an empty chair at their table this Christmas."

Coonamble parents have been left "disappointed" and "devastated" after it was confirmed that the only public transport to school on the shire's Billeroy Road has been cancelled. NSW Legislative Council member Stephen Lawrence confirmed on Thursday 19 December that the Billeroy Bus Service would not run from the start of the 2025 school year due to an "unsustainably low" numbers of students.  However, he said the service could return if numbers reach the eight-student threshold to be financially viable.   "It's not a new policy. The government's just responded to a change in the patronage levels," the former Dubbo mayor said. "It's just one of these really unfortunate situations. "I really feel for the families, but ultimately these are resources to be made according to policies. "So, I don't really see a way to get a one-off exception made in this case, to be frank."Labor Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) Stephen Lawrence. IMAGE: supplied As at July 1 2024, the average patronage per trip was two students, according to Transport for NSW (TfNSW), and fell to one student as at 12 December. "On many occasions the service carried no children," a TfNSW spokesperson said. In recent years, the number of students using the service has fluctuated between one and nine, although TfNSW did not allow children further down the road from the route to be included in the count. TfNSW said in July that three children were not included for that reason. Children under the age of six who could take the bus to attend pre-school are also not counted. "With the number of kids that are going to be on our road over the coming years, there's enough numbers to retain a bus run there," farmer James Nalder said. Mr Nalder lives about 20 kilometres from Coonamble on Billeroy Road and has three children expected to begin attending school over the next few years. "It's going to make it harder to attract long-term, permanent staff with families to work for us as well if there's not a bus service that comes to the front gate," he said. Since parents were notified in July that they could lose it, community members and the local council have lobbied hard to keep the service. James and Emma Nalder. IMAGE: Meat & Livestock AustraliaMember for Barwon Roy Butler said he has suggested changes to the bus route to pick up extra students. "Part of the problem is a lack of flexibility in bus routes, which I have often talked about in the past," Mr Butler said. "In this case, an existing bus service had previously taken in Billeroy Road as part of its route, but the route was shortened, leaving some students stranded. "In the past I have talked to the minister about small changes in bus routes to accommodate extra students. There are often simple solutions to these problems, but it just requires a bit more flexibility." A TfNSW spokesperson said the agency has "closely monitored" the number of school children on the route before the decision was made. "Transport staff contacted the bus operator in July 2024 to advise that patronage numbers were under review and the service was in danger of being terminated if numbers did not increase over the second half of the year." "The Billeroy to Coonamble service was removed from the bus operator’s contract, effective 20 December 2024. "Transport for NSW acknowledges the inconvenience to eligible families and invites them to apply for the NSW Government School Drive Subsidy to help offset the cost of school travel." Local grandmother Anne Cullen says the School Drive Subsidy "won't cover the cost, much less the inconvenience." "They pay 73 cents per kilometre one-way once a day, where actually you've got to drive those kilometres four times a day," she said. "Not to mention, people have got to get off tractors, or start work an hour or more later and stop mid-afternoon to drive their children to and from school. "It's absolutely devastating. Those families need that bus. "It's a total disregard for remote rural children." Coonamble mayor Dan Keady said student numbers are "cyclical." "The Billeroy bus run has been around for as long as I have," Cr Keady said. "There mightn't be many numbers at the moment, but it only takes for kids to start hitting school age in two or three families, or new families moving in, and all of a sudden there's demand for it again."

Bourke residents will have access to a community bus for the next two weeks.After an unexpected six-week absence, the LiveBetter community bus got back on the road yesterday (19 December) and will be available for two-days per week over the next fortnight.Residents were left without the service when the former operator of the Wilba the Empowerbus service chose to end the contract with Transport for NSW in November.   Since then, Transport for NSW has worked to establish a temporary service for the community.  “We are aware that residents living in remote areas with minimal transport options have less choice about when, where and how they travel,” Transport for NSW Acting Director West Holly Davies said.   “When the Wilba service ceased operations in November, finding a temporary solution became a priority.   “We thank LiveBetter for its cooperation in getting the service back on the streets of Bourke.”  LiveBetter will operate a 12-seater bus providing a flexible transport service for the communities of Bourke, North Bourke and Alice Edwards Village.  The service will be a pre-booked, reliable and accessible service aligning with connecting transport services, such as the NSW TrainLink coach on Friday mornings and flights in and out of Bourke Airport, where possible.  Transport for NSW is reviewing all transport service options for the Bourke community and will continue to consult with the local council and community members.“We’re very aware that residents living in remote areas with minimal transport options have less choice about when, where and how they travel,” Mrs Davies said.“Transport insecurity is more pronounced in remote communities and is consistently identified as a factor that restricts Australian families’ capacity to access services and participate in activities,” she said. New serviceFrom today, the trial service will operate from 10.30am to 5pm on Thursdays, and from 8.30am to 2.30pm on Fridays. All trips must be pre-booked by phoning 02 6391 2433.  No service will be available on Boxing Day, Thursday 26 December, and reduced services will be available on Friday 27 December, from 10.30am to 2.30pm.  Fares start from only $1.15 for concession card holders one way, or $2.50 for the RED ticket all day, and children under five years will travel for free when accompanied by a parent or carer.    

Lightning Ridge residents can expect to see one of its two town water bores back online in 2026 after a government commitment to fund a new pipeline. The NSW and federal governments committed $2.6 million on Friday 13 December to the five-kilometre pipeline, which will run from Bore 1 to Bore 2 before connecting into an existing pipeline that goes into town.   Work is expected to begin in early 2025 and take at least 12 months to complete. Bore 1 was taken offline in 2023 because the original pipeline into town had corroded.  "This extra grant will actually give us the freedom to have the extra water," said Lightning Ridge Miners' Association Executive Officer Kavitha Barron. "In case something happens to one of the bore lines, you've got the other that can still service the [opal mining] industry and the town. "The opal industry, obviously, supports the town - its tourism, retail sectors - it's a massive, massive boost to the industry, because without the water there's really not much processing of local dirt." Opal miners need water to process their haul. IMAGE: River McCrossenWater is used in cement mixers that separate opal from the claystone the it is found in. The pipeline will help secure 407 megalitres of water that the two bores are together licenced to provide the town each year. The original was built about 40 years ago out of concrete, but the new one will be made from more resilient high density plastic. The money also covers a new remote monitoring system that alerts the local council when there could be a fault, plus replacement for aging pump station pipework and valves at Bore 1. Walgett Shire mayor Jasen Ramien said the old line has been a drain on council resources. "It's long past its use by date," he said. "It's an ongoing job to patch it, repair it, replace sections, and it just got to the stage now where it's just not viable." Since Bore 1 shut down, Lightning Ridge has been relying on Bore 2, although a spokesperson from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water said the town will need both to meet demand. The project is expected to include upgrades to pressure and flow valves on the pump at Bore 2  The Australian and NSW governments each committed $1.3 million for the project under the National Water Grid Fund. “Lightning Ridge is one of the most remote and driest locations in the state, so it is a non-negotiable they should have the right infrastructure to safeguard their water supply," NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson said. “This investment will ensure everyone has greater access to water to keep up with demand and prevent any impacts to essential services, including the local school, hospital and fire station.”

Tasha Hurley of Condobolin has been named as one of eight finalists in the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) Rural Achiever Program for 2025. Known for her passion for the land and rural Australia, as well as her kind, generous and vibrant nature, Tasha said she is honoured and excited to accept the leadership opportunity. “It is such a great program, and I am really looking forward to making the most of it. “I am very passionate about our regional communities and agriculture, so to be given the opportunity to develop my own skills and knowledge to further advocate for these things is unbelievable. There have been so many great finalists who have been through the program before me, so it is very special to be following in their footsteps.Tasha Hurley - Image supplied “I am so happy to have made it through to Sydney as a finalist – anything more than that is a bonus. Whatever happens, I will continue to work in agriculture in regional NSW and volunteer on all the committees I currently do. “One day I would love to combine my love for agriculture and cooking to create a recipe book which doubles as an educational tool. In the hopes of dividing the lag in agricultural knowledge between regional and metropolitan areas,” said Tasha. “It will be a beautiful coffee table book which can be gifted to anyone in your life. It will tell the stories of farmers, show the production calendar for the product, the sacrifices, risks and the processes it takes to grow their product, method of getting it to market and costs associated with it all. Tasha Hurley - Image supplied“It will then be followed by two or three recipes which feature their product as the main ingredient. Hopefully anyone who reads it will feel like they have a more personal connection to that farmer, and they’ll subconsciously choose to purchase the Australian grown options when doing their groceries, rather than the (sometimes) cheaper imported alternative,” she added. The Rural Achiever program recognises emerging agricultural industry leaders who are making a significant difference to their local communities, shows and regional NSW. Tasha, who grew up on a 22,000-acre sheep and cattle grazing property northwest of Condobolin holds a Bachelor in Agricultural Business Management. Employed for three years at Forbes Livestock and Agency Co, as Livestock Marketing and Business Development Officer, she has recently joined ‘On the Box’ as an Agency Representative, making buying and selling online easier. A former chair of the Royal Agricultural Society Youth Group, Tasha has advocated for agricultural advancement on both local and national levels, she spends much of her time working on many committees in Condobolin and Forbes organising and supporting local events and committees, making her a worthy candidate for the Rural Achievers program. Bec George of Nyngan former RAS Rural Achiever Finalist - Image Royal Agriculture SocietyFormer RAS Rural Achiever Finalist Bec George of Nyngan says it is a once in a lifetime experience that gives selected candidates a great chance to learn take home lessons about how to continue to give back to community. “The Rural Achiever program gives those selected recipients an opportunity through the seven-day program to have amazing networking opportunities with industry leaders, a behind-the-scenes experience of the Royal Easter Show, as well as lifelong connections and friendships.”“Passionate young people within our farming communities are imperative to the prosperous future of Australian Agriculture,” according to the RAS Rural Achiever program organisers. The finalists will take part in an all expenses paid, eight-day program at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in 2025, with one finalist named as RAS Rural achiever.

With Christmas fast approaching, many Western Plains residents are gearing up for their favourite festive feast. Whether sourced from one of our great local butchers or raised on your own property, the Christmas ham holds a special place on the table. For those embracing the paddock-to-plate approach, there are important responsibilities to keep in mind, prompting a timely reminder from Western Local Land Services. “Swill feeding, which is offering your pigs animal products, is illegal,” Anja Sandring, District Veterinarian, Western Local Land Service said.  “Some of the main examples of swill feeding are carcasses, meat scraps, blood and bones, or products that have been in contact with animal products, like cooking oil, fruit and vegetables, and bakery items.” Dr Sandring warned that swill feeding poses serious risks for the introduction and spread of Emergency Animal Diseases (EAD), such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and African Swine Fever (ASF). “Australia is free from FMD and ASF, and an outbreak of those diseases would severely affect the Australian livestock industry and have devastating consequences for producers and communities,” she said. Swill feeding pigs is illegal and dangerous warns Anja Sandring, District Veterinarian at Western Local Land Services.Biosecurity Obligations for Producers To ensure a safe and disease-free Christmas, it is essential for producers to include their pigs in their Annual Land and Stock Returns. This measure enables Local Land Services to quickly and effectively respond to EAD outbreaks or other biosecurity events. Additionally, if producers plan to move pigs off their property, they must be registered with Pig Pass, the national tracking system for pig movements in Australia. Pig Pass plays a critical role in maintaining food safety, animal disease control, and animal welfare. Reporting Emergencies During the Holidays For livestock producers who suspect an emergency animal disease during the Christmas shutdown period, immediate action is crucial. The Emergency Animal Disease hotline is available at 1800 675 888. Early reporting can prevent widespread outbreaks and protect the industry. For further advice about managing pigs or other livestock, producers are encouraged to contact their Local Land Services District Veterinarian at 1300 795 299. This holiday season, remember that a delicious home-grown ham starts with proper care and biosecurity measures. By following these guidelines, producers can ensure a safe and satisfying Christmas feast while protecting Australia’s livestock industry.  

Aeris Tritton gave a public health notice for people with older-style heart implants near the Murrawombie mine from 16 December to 21 December.  The copper mine is carrying out electromagnetic work and cautions people with older-style heart implants traveling along the Yarrandale and Murrawombie Road to stay clear of the monitored zones.  Symptoms can include among others dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or heart palpitations.  Work will take place during the day time and there are signs in place advising of the public health notice.  Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) can cause an interruption of another electronic device within its proximity.  It can either disrupt the function of a pacemaker, cause irregular heart rhythm, or interfere with a pulmonary artery sensor reading.  Due to the variety of heart implant devices, patients are encouraged to speak to their doctor for more information.  Aeris Tritton conducts electromagnetic work every year and issues a public health notice annually. Bogan Shire Council is helping to spread the word to ensure people who may be affected can avoid the area during this week.

The conclusion of a 12-month program designed to increase local indigenous youth cultural knowledge has been celebrated at a festive gathering.The Baradine Local Aboriginal Lands Council (LALC) held their annual Christmas party last Sunday at the Camp Cypress holiday park.LALC CEO, Michael Ross said that board members have been working all year with local indigenous children providing cultural activities for the purpose of developing strong connections to identity, community and culture.Local Aboriginal children enjoyed the LALC Christmas party fun.“The focus has been on the kids,” he said. “We've had didgeridoo lessons, clap sticks, face painting, weaving and other activities all tailored around our welcome to country to get their knowledge up there.“It has been really great and it has been run by our young leaders, with Reuben, Leon and Lowana Ruttley instrumental in helping us achieve this success.“This seasonal gathering is now the opportunity for everyone to get together, celebrate achievements and enjoy some Christmas festivities.”Mr Ross says that although the get together with members has been held in previous years, this year the focus has been on youth.“We want to get our local kids more involved in our community, so hence, the kids club, which we have done a few times before over the years,” he added.  “I think that they have had fun.“The board and their families have prepared the lunch and we are very appreciative of that.It is a good time to have a social get together right on Christmas, despite the heat!  “I would like to add that the Baradine LALC wishes all its members a happy and safe Christmas and New Year and we look forward to 2025.”

Country Press Australia is breathing a sigh of relief after news the Federal Government plans to establish the News Bargaining Incentive which will ensure large digital platforms contribute to keeping news media alive in Australia.As so many small rural communities rely on local publications for information, this comes as welcome news to country press publishers.Following a META announcement in March that it would no longer renew agreements with publishers, the incentive will spur on digital platforms to renew or enter into commercial deals with news publishers that will help keep rural publications alive.It will work when search and social media companies fail to reach agreements with publishers, and are forced instead to pay a charge and 100 per cent of funds raised will then be distributed to eligible publishers. The value of any agreements reached would then be offset against the tax payable by the companies. Lee O'Connor Managing Editor Coonamble Times and Western Plains App - Image courtesy Linkedin“It is very encouraging that our government has taken a strong stance on this issue,”said Lee O’Connor, Managing Editor Coonamble Times and Western Plains App. “The outcomes – whether successful or not – will have a big impact on news publishers like the Western Plains App and all our towns’ local newspapers.“We are grateful that Country Press Australia has been at the table to voice the needs of smaller, regional publishers,” said Mrs O’Connor.“The devil will be in the detail, and I only hope smaller publishers are not left out. I’ll certainly be reading the discussion paper very carefully and plan to make a submission,” she added.Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer – Image courtesy The Australian According to Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer the Incentive would help deliver financial support and give recognition to member publishers for the valuable work they do across the rural, regional, and outer-suburban areas.“In the overwhelming majority of communities in regional, rural and outer-suburban Australia where our members operate, they are the only provider of hyper-local place based public interest journalism to those communities.Image courtesy Nyngan Weekly“And as such, the local paper’s role as an important piece of democratic infrastructure cannot be overstated,” said Mr Schreyer.“The announcement of the News Bargaining Incentive is good news for publishers who otherwise faced ongoing challenges in the wake of Meta’s previous decision to not renew agreements.“Local papers command an overwhelming share of voice across the broader regional, rural and outer-suburban landscape and it’s pleasing to see the increased recognition from government of the role our papers play in the communities they serve,” he said.According to the government report, the incentive will apply to large digital platforms who operate significant social media or search services, whether they carry news or not.Mr Schreyer says Country Press Australia look forward to playing an important role in the consultation process and expressed thanks to ministers Rowland and Jones for showing their support to publishers.“We remain steadfast in our commitment to our members and to the communities they serve.”After stakeholder consultation in regards the final scheme design, a public consultation paper is expected to be released in early 2025, and the incentive will take effect from January 1.

 Cobar Shire Council has welcomed forward progress in the water system upgrades which supply the town.This follows an announcement last week that the contract has been allocated for the construction of two new pump stations to be built in Nyngan and Hermidale.The high-tech stations will ensure water pumped from Nyngan to Cobar enjoys greater reliability.Cobar Shire Council General Manager Peter Vlatko said he was happy the contracts had been awarded. “We’ve been working with the government on this for three and a half years. It’s exciting to know the project is moving ahead.“Those pumping stations are crucial to our water supply.“Cobar is undergoing a significant period of economic growth, driven by our mining sector. So to have greater reliability of water delivery is something we welcome,” Mr Vlatko said. The contract for the $45.5 million infrastructure project has been awarded to construction company Diona. Work will begin in early 2025 and will create 20 jobs in Western NSW. Both Federal and State funding has pitched in to support the project, which is a priority because the current pump stations are ageing and at risk of failing.Construction on the pump stations is expected to be complete by mid-2026. Hermidale pumping station. Image supplied.Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek said in a country like Australia, there are things that most of us take for granted. “We expect when we turn the tap on at home, safe drinking water will come out. “But for more than 600,000 people in regional and remote Australia that isn’t the case. “We have to do better and it’s why the Albanese Labor Government is investing billions of dollars in projects like this across the country to ensure communities have access to safe and reliable water.” NSW Minister for Water, Rose Jackson welcomed the progress. “We are getting on with the job of improving water reliability for more than 4,000 residents in Cobar along with the businesses and industries that drive the local economy. “This is one of the biggest investments in new water infrastructure in this corner of regional NSW and will ensure water is being pumped faster and more effectively along the pipeline from Nyngan to Cobar. “Awarding the contract means that work is now on track to begin in early 2025, which is great news for the community who have been waiting a long time for this project to begin.” Mr Vlatko said he hoped progress would include the addition of much-needed pipeline that would move the project ahead even further and looked forward to continuing to collaborate with both governments to complete the required upgrades.  

Community members, councillors and politicians from Brewarrina and beyond have paid tribute after the shire's longest-serving councillor died last week. Angelo Pippos joined the council in 1974 as a 25-year-old and served for 48 years before passing last Friday. “Angelo was not only a valued member of our Council, but also a true friend and a guiding light for our community,” Brewarrina Shire mayor Tommy Stanton said“His tireless dedication to improving the lives of our residents and his passion for our Shire will never be forgotten. On behalf of the entire Council, I extend my deepest sympathies to his beloved wife, Margie, and the entire Pippos family during this heartbreaking time.” The son of Greek immigrant George Pippos from the Island of Ithaka, Angelo was working in his family's Cafe De Luxe when he was elected. He took over the cafe from his parents as a young man before the historic venue, founded by his father in 1926, was destroyed in an electrical fire in 2014.Mr Pippos served Brewarrina Shire as a councillor for almost 50 years. IMAGE: Brewarrina Shire CouncilMr Pippos and wife Margaret had plans to leave town for Toowoomba after the disaster, but decided to stay following an outburst of community support. "He was the one who taught me that change was a good thing, that I could make my own choices," said Cheryl William online, originally from Brewarrina. "[He] watched us grow up, looking out for us as teenagers, joking with everyone and helping anyone in need. Was always good to see him and Margaret whenever I went home, he would always say 'look, here she is, how many kids do you have now?'" Brewarrina Shire General Manager David Kirby said Mr Pippos had "integrity and vision." "His contributions to not only Brewarrina, but to towns right across outback NSW ensures he leaves a lasting legacy,” Mr Kirby said.“He was a true advocate for the community and always put the needs of others first. Our thoughts and prayers are with Margie and the Pippos family as they navigate this immense loss.”Barwon MP Roy Butler also paid tribute online."What a loss for Brewarrina Shire Council and the community. I will make sure his services to Brewarrina are recognised. Sincere condolences to the family, and the community," Mr Butler said.

The Coonabarabran Unicorns Rugby League Club has returned from the brink after it managed to elect a president at a meeting on 11 December. At least ten members gathered at Coonabarabran Golf Club in the evening, where Telstra technician Keith Hull was elected unopposed following three failed attempts to elect a president in October. The club was on borrowed time after its third AGM on 28 October, where a stand-in president was appointed for six weeks. If no-one was elected that evening, the club would have folded for the 2025 season. "There's a lot of people interested in the club, but there wasn't many for president. It was at the stage where they needed somebody, so I put my hand up," Mr Hull said. "It'll be a challenge, I think, but there's a lot of good people on the committee, so it shouldn't be too hard." Mr Hull said he first joined the club committee about ten to 15-years-ago and had played with the club as a child.The Unicorns league tag side taking on Coonamble on 6 July 2024. IMAGE: Carly Chynoweth The Unicorns will head into the 2025 season with a men's first grade and reserves, a women's league tag and men's under 18s side. The Castlereagh League had eight teams in the 2024 season, where the Unicorns finished fifth on the ladder. Castlereagh League secretary Bryson Luff welcomed the team securing a president and it said Coonabarabran isn't the only club that has struggled to find volunteers. "Pretty much every club can be a year-to-year proposition, given the size of populations of some of the towns," Mr Luff said. "Every club is different to each other. There's no magic fix for anything, but I think you just got to try and get a good club culture and get good people involved in the club. But, that's easier said than done, isn't it? "We're just looking forward to a good season next year." The new season is expected to kick off in April.

A commitment to working toward a goal of net zero emissions has seen Cobar Shire Council implement some innovative strategies, and one of these has just won them a state-wide award.The Local Government NSW announced their Excellence in Environment Awards: Towards Net Zero Emissions last week, and Cobar Shire Council took out the top award for their category which included councils with a population of less than 30,000 residents.The project which won the award was the implementation of the Cobar Water and Sewer Treatment Plants Solar Arrays.Cobar Shire Mayor, Jarrod Marsden, said they had made use of one of Cobar’s key resources – the sun.“Council built a new water filtration plant not long ago and as part of that process, we built ourselves a great big storage shed for all of our spares,” Mr Marsden said.“To help us reach our net-zero objective, we designed the shed to include solar panels on the roof.”“It’s a big shed and the panels offset some of the power that the water treatment plant uses."Once we achieved that project and were nominated for the award and were lucky enough to win."We didn’t send anyone along to the ceremony because we didn’t expect to win, but it is a huge honour and worthy recognition of council’s work."Solar panels one minute, wind farms the next - Cobar Shire Council is embracing its goal of net zero emissions. (Photo: WestWind Energy)Mr Marsden said the solar panels produce enough power to supply upwards of 60 percent of what the water filtration plant uses.In his words, “it’s a fair chunk.”The filtration plants been in place for about three years and a 30-kilowatt solar array system has been there for about 18 months, and they aren't the only environmentally friendly system that the Cobar Shire engages.“We recycle and reuse about 80 per cent of our of our sewerage water, which goes onto the golf course and sporting fields,” Mr Marsden said.“We also have a 20-kilowatt solar system down at the pool to offset some of the costs with the filtration system down there."This allows us to run the heaters at the pool, which gives us pool season that is a month longer than it used to be.”“One thing we put no shortage on here is space and sunshine so big banks of solar panels are not too much of an issue.”Looking forward, Mr Marsden said the council is welcoming the finalisation of a wind farm neat the Endeavor mine, the first one in the shire."That wind farm isn’t too far off, and council have been talking with another four companies about the possibility of four more wind farms across the shire."We don’t necessarily have high winds, but they are consistent."When you when you look at the numbers, they stack up fairly well,” Mr Marsden said.“Because we're at the end of the line when it comes to power, one of the things that holds Cobar back from growing any bigger, including the mines, is that there’s limited power and water."The mines out here can't get any bigger than they are currently, so one of the issues that these wind farms will help will be to offer a local supply so that industry can actually grow further.”

Authorities have confirmed high flows and climbing temperatures contributed to thousands of fish deaths in Walgett. A spokesperson for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development said a kill affecting about 2000 fish, mainly Carp, was reported on Monday 10 December.  Fisheries Officers with the Dharriwaa River Rangers attended sites on 13 December and noted critically low levels of dissolved oxygen (DO) in sections of the lower Namoi and Barwon rivers.  "The area has received recent high flows, followed by increasing temperatures, which has impacted water quality including dissolved oxygen and contributed to the fish kill," a Department spokesperson said. "The NSW Government is monitoring conditions downstream in partnership with the Commonwealth." In the Walgett, the Barwon River's height peaked 10.79 metres at around 6:45am on Tuesday 11 December, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.An image of dead fish taken on Tuesday 11 December in Walgett waterways. IMAGE: supplied The river in the town sat at 10.42 metres and falling slowly, below the minor flood level of 10.5 metres, according to the midday update on Friday 13 December. Authorities also said there is no concern for Walgett's water supply. "Walgett’s town drinking supply is currently sourced from bore water and is not impacted by river conditions or the fish deaths," a spokesperson for the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water said. "We always remain vigilant about prioritising water security for towns, critical human needs and the environment, which is why we are always monitoring raw water supply.   "Once flows have receded at Collarenebri, further upstream, we will have a clearer idea about when river flows might return to normal for Walgett and other downstream locations."

Police are investigating after the body of a man was found in water near Warren. Emergency services were called at about 10:40am on Wednesday 11 December to a property understood to be about 30 kilometres from the town on Marthaguy Road following reports of a body found in the Marathguy Creek. The incident is not being treated as suspicious. The Western Plains App understands the man was found on a property belonging to him.A police spokesperson could not provide further details.

Police have greater powers to search individuals using portable metal detectors after laws passed in June came into effect on Monday 9 December. The new 'wanding' laws allow senior police to declare zones where officers can stop and scan people without a warrant at places including shopping precincts, public transport stations and certain sports venues. NSW premier Chris Minns said the laws will be an inconvenience, but will keep the public safe."We can’t take chances when it comes to public safety," he said. “I have no doubt that these reforms will save lives, because people will think twice about carrying a knife with them.” Under the new rules, an officer at the rank of Assistant Commissioner or above can declare areas where one of the following have occurred in the last 12 months: At least one offence committed by a person armed with knife or weapon.At least one serious indictable offence involving violence.More than one offence of knife possession or prohibited weapon possession.Police will be able to declare zones for up to 12 hours, with an option to extend the timeframe if criteria are met.  READ: 13-year-old threatens peers with knife at school in Bourke  Bourke mayor Lachlan Ford welcomed the powers, although he said they may be more limited in the town than in metropolitan areas. "There's not big shopping centres or places of public transport out here," Cr Ford said. "At the end of the day, any tools that the police have got to perform their duties better would be a good step forward." In September, a "small number" of wands were available to police for field operations at the local level, according to answers to questions from an August budget estimates hearing. The answers said individual police officers were not currently allocated wands. The Opposition also welcomed the laws, although Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said he wants to see a faster rollout of metal detector wands to officers. “The Minns Labor Government needs to provide some clarity around how things will work in terms of getting this equipment to rural and remote areas and whether the mid to late 2025 date has been improved, because the current timeline is simply too long to wait," Mr Toole said.

Telstra customers between Coonamble and Baradine may gain access to improved 4G and 5G service in their area through one of several mobile towers along the Inland Rail route. Work began on the Calga Road site in mid-2024 about 11.5 kilometres from the turnoff from Tooraweenah Road. The tower will be one of seven funded by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to serve the sections between Narromine and North Star along its planned freight rail between Queensland and Victoria.The Calga tower is expected to come online in early 2025."Inland Rail trains will require mobile telecommunications infrastructure to ensure train drivers and train equipment can communicate with network controllers at all times," an Inland Rail spokesperson said."This enables safe rail system operations by ensuring train drivers and network controllers are always able to keep in touch regarding train movements.The tower at the Calga site waiting to be propped up."However, this rail safety equipment also has a positive benefit for communities."Mobile phone users will be able to make use of the Inland Rail infrastructure for their personal telecommunications needs."Six towers are already up and running along the Narromine to Narrabri (N2N) and Narrabri to North Star (N2NS) sections, including in Mount Tenandra and Kickabil.The sites provide 4GX coverage, Telstra's upgrade on the 4G network, which the telcos say is faster and allows more devices to use it at once.The tower had been expected to go up earlier this month, although heavy weekend rain (last week) prevented workers and a crane accessing the site."As the mobile telecommunications enhancements are rolled out, Telstra will manage the ongoing operations and maintenance once the infrastructure has been delivered," the Inland Rail spokesperson said.